How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds offer the safety, comfort and secure space for your child to sleep. They can be dangerous, however, if you do not adhere to safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its beauty and ease of assembly and quality construction. It's suitable from birth and can be made into a toddler bed by the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to provide a place that is safe and comfortable for your baby. It is crucial to verify whether it is in compliance with current safety standards. It is important to check that a second-hand cot or heirloom cot has been cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It should also be free of transfers and stickers that could present a choking hazard and any protrusions on the top rail which could get caught in your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
It's also important to ensure that the cot is assembled, particularly in the case of a hand-me-down or a vintage model. Older cots might have been painted using lead paint, which is harmful to infants. Modern cots come with a locking mechanism built in which prevents the cot from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.
It is important to choose the best mattress for your child. It should be sturdy and fit comfortably into the cot, and have no gaps on either side. You should also consider using a mattress protector that is waterproof to protect the fabric from accidents and extend its life.
It is best to choose a cot with an adjustable height base, so you can lower the mattress as they expand. This will stop them from climbing out of the cot and falling out of the bed, and also helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It is a good idea to measure the height of the base regularly especially if your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up during sleep.
When your baby is no longer in their bassinet, or crib then the next step is the cot bed. Choose a cot or bed that is compliant with the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a cot, and BS8509 for a bed. This will ensure your baby is protected throughout the first six months. Then, you'll need to consider a bunk or single bed when they reach their toddler years. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet the highest safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for new parents to choose a Cot Bed which is both safe and stylish. If you do a little study, you can locate an cot that is stylish and fits your home decor. The best cot beds come with various styles that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts, so you can choose the one that suits the room of your baby and your personal style preferences.
If you're looking to buy something traditional, modern or something in between There's a huge selection of cots online that can be adapted to all budgets and tastes. Some cots have additional features, such as teething rails and drawers under the bed to keep things tidy and neat.
The length of time that your cot will be used is an important factor. It is recommended to move your child to a toddler bed when they can stand up on their own and sit up on their own, which is usually around the age of three. For this reason, opting for a cot that can be converted into a toddler bed could be a wise investment. You can purchase the mattress separately and, when your child is ready, you can lower the bed base to the lowest setting.
The sleigh and four poster cot designs are also a popular choice for many new parents. They can add a touch of elegance and luxury to any space, and work especially well in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented with a canopy or curtains for added effect.
You should always select breathable bedding for your baby's bedding, such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets since they can pose a danger of suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are securely fit over the mattress and ensure that there aren't any gaps on between the two sides of the bed. This will lower the chance of tripping or getting caught and improve the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are perfect for families that are growing as they can easily changed to a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This can save parents the cost and hassle of buying a new bed for their child as they move from toddler to baby.
The convertible cot design features customizable sides that can be fixed, have doors or fold down to make it easy to access. top ranked cribs are designed to decrease the chance of entrapment and create a safe sleep environment for your child. There are also clear panel options which allow your child to see their surroundings, fostering independence and an appreciation for exploration.
Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions to accommodate your baby's developmental needs and needs. As your baby grows, you can lower the setting to stop them from falling out of the crib. When your child is able to sit up on their own without assistance, you can select the lowest base position which will allow them to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.
If you prefer a traditional look the classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. The cots will last for a long time because they are made of durable and sturdy wood. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the security of your baby and are coated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern, with features such as built-in storage, teething rails and even a built-in shelf. Some even come with a baby changing top to make it easier to change your baby. You will also save space and money by not needing to buy an additional cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots are even more innovative than that like the Pinette which features a wooden frame with a house design that is ideal for hanging toys and is the perfect place to hide when it's covered with a bed sheet. It's also built to last thanks to its an exclusive design that lets it grow with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.
Storage
Whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a welcoming space for your loved one, selecting the best crib bed is a crucial investment. Select a cot that has adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that will allow you to use it for many years. Find a cot with flatpack features that allows you to build it yourself. Some cot-beds come with extra features, such as under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight frames for sleeping that are suitable for small children and infants. Some models are constructed of a lightweight wood or fabric and have a mattress that is simple while others are more substantial and can be transformed into toddler beds. Regardless of the type, all cots must to be in compliance with strict UK safety standards.
The majority of cots are affordable although the price may differ based on the materials and features. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example is built to take less than an hour to assemble and comes with easy-to-follow directions and an Allen key. It's a bit on the pricey side but its sleek style and sturdy construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot beds are a fantastic investment since they permit you to use the furniture for many years as your child develops from a baby into an adult, and eventually a full size bed. There are options that transform from a crib into a toddler bed, or even sofas. These beds are typically larger than traditional cribs. They may be more costly however, they last longer.
When you are buying a cot, consider where you'll place it and how big the space is. Cots must be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Make sure the room is free of clutter, toys blankets, pillows, and toys. Also, if you're buying a second-hand crib, inspect the frame for any protrusions that could pose a danger to your child. If you are concerned you should contact the manufacturer for guidance.